Wanaka

Ski Wanaka New Zealand

With a couple of Wanaka ski fields within close proximity and some great heli skiing nearby, Lake Wanaka is a fabulous ski town. Other than the Wanaka skiing, a major attraction is the lake, which makes it a picturesque and tranquil place. The town is nestled along the shores of Lake Wanaka, and views abound across the lake to Mt Aspiring, the Matterhorn of New Zealand. When you gaze across Lake Wanaka on a still day, you would swear you are seeing double as you take in the reflections on the water.

Wanaka is a place of contradictions and finds the perfect balance between being low-key and upmarket. The architecture is modern and stylish, as are some of the trendy people that grace the caffe latte establishments, yet there is also a grungy scene. It doesn’t have the tourist hype seen in Queenstown, and Wanaka still manages to retain the feel of a relaxed ski town.

Where is Wanaka NZ?

Wanaka (pronounced Wonaka) is the gateway to the Mt Aspiring National Park and is located 428km SW of Christchurch, and 68km NE (about 1 hour) of Queenstown on the South Island of New Zealand.

Wanaka Ski Fields

Treble Cone is one of the Wanaka ski resorts, located 26km northwest of town (a 30-35 minute drive). Treble Cone is particularly well suited to advanced to expert riders – see our Treble Cone review for more information.

The other main Wanaka ski field is Cardrona, which is 34km southwest of town. Cardrona has great terrain parks and good terrain for beginner to advanced riders.

On the opposite side of Cardrona Valley from Cardrona Ski Resort is Snowfarm, a cross country skiing area.

Heli Skiing Wanaka

Wanaka is also home to two of the biggest New Zealand heli skiing outfits, Harris Mountains Heliski and Southern Lakes Heliski, with vast terrain in the mountain ranges near Treble Cone and north of Lake Wanaka. Both companies have a fairly similar offering but you can check out our reviews regarding the subtle differences.

Wanaka Accommodation

Wanaka accommodation is of very high quality, and there is great diversity in the type of lodging available. In addition to a few resort hotels, Wanaka has 5-star luxurious bed and breakfast retreats, inexpensive motels, and a range of backpackers. Some of the accommodation is in the centre of town, located along the shores of Lake Wanaka, or a short walk or drive out of town. See the Wanaka accommodation page for more information.

Activities

Whilst Wanaka is much more understated than the crazy Queenstown, there are still various Wanaka activities on offer besides skiing and snowboarding. The Wanaka area has a few adventure pursuits as well as lots of R and R activities such as day spas, wineries, or a cruise on Lake Wanaka.

There are also a plethora of Wanaka restaurants, cafes, bars, and pubs to suit all entertainment tastes. Wanaka shopping is also pretty good, especially if you’re in the market for a new ski or snowboard outfit.

Ski Wanaka NZ – Pros and Cons

Pros

The Wanaka ski fields are better than the Queenstown ski resorts (hence why some people staying in Queenstown make the trek to get to Cardrona and Treble Cone).

Wanaka skiing is less afflicted by the weather compared to Mt Hutt near Methven.

Heli skiing makes a fabulous adjunct to your Wanaka ski holiday.

The town has a cosmopolitan flair whilst retaining a chilled out vibe.

Looking out across Lake Wanaka and the snow capped mountains is stunning.

Cons

Like other NZ ski towns, there’s no ski-in ski-out accommodation and you’ll have a daily commute to the ski resorts.

Pro or Con Depending On Your Perspective

Wanaka is more subdued than Queenstown. It’s not crazy busy like Queenstown, and the nightlife is quieter and there are less activities on offer.

Tours That May Include Wanaka

From price based on multi-share "lift only" package.
Base/invoice currency is in NZD.
*Displayed price may vary due to currency fluctuations.

Price p/p

USD 1,128
USD 1,128

To be eligible for any advertised specials you must book & pay the required deposit by the last day of the promotion...no exceptions. Conditions apply...please enquire for an accurate quote.

Book this trip by Aug 31 & get 5% off the full price. Discounted price displayed.

Ability:Beginner to Advanced

This 7 day adventure is ideal for the young at heart who want to pack in as much skiing or snowboarding and fun as possible into a single week. You will visit up to 6 of NZ's great ski areas with professional guides who will get you to the best skiing/snowboarding in each of the locations.

From price based on per-person, silver package 2 Adults + 2 Children (8-17) i.e. total package is NZ 6499.
Base/invoice currency is in NZD.
*Displayed price may vary due to currency fluctuations.

Price p/p

USD 1,073

Ability:Beginner to Advanced

Take the hassle out of your NZ ski holiday this year by joining a fully hosted & guided tour. Choose from 3 levels of accommodation to suit your budget. No driving, no organising stuff, just relax & enjoy your holiday!

From price based on "silver package" twin share.
Base/invoice currency is in NZD.
*Displayed price may vary due to currency fluctuations.

Price p/p

USD 1,979

Ability:Beginner to Advanced

Take the hassle out of your next NZ ski holiday by joining a hosted & guided tour. Choose from 3 levels of accommodation to suit your budget.No driving, no organising stuff, just relax & enjoy your holiday! This package is for couples or twin share however a package can be customised for different group configurations.

From price based on Experience 3-run package (per person).
Base/invoice currency is in NZD inclusive of tax.
*Displayed price may vary due to currency fluctuations.

Price p/p

USD 657

Ability:Intermediate to Expert

If you are visiting Queenstown or Wanaka don't miss the opportunity to experience some of New Zealand's best heli skiing with Harris Mountains Heliski. Packages are either 3, 4 or 7 runs with the options to purchase additional runs on the day.

DAY HELISKIING MT COOKPackages include 5 runs & option of flights from QT or Wanaka

From price based on Mt Cook Classic 5-run package not inc flight from Queenstown or Wanaka (per person).
Base/invoice currency is in NZD inclusive of tax.
*Displayed price may vary due to currency fluctuations.

Price p/p

USD 776

Ability:Intermediate to Expert

If you are visiting Queenstown or Wanaka & want to experience heli skiing at Mt Cook, Harris Mountains Heliski operate day heli packages to Mt Cook including a breathtaking scenic flight to/from Queenstown/Wanaka/Mt Cook. Packages include 5 runs with the option to purchase *additional runs on the day.